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INVERELL SHIRE COUNCIL

NOTICE OF MEETING

CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE 8 June, 2017 A Civil & Environmental Services Committee Meeting will be held in the Committee Room, Administrative Centre, 144 Otho Street, Inverell on Wednesday, 14 June, 2017, commencing at 8.30 am. Your attendance at this Civil & Environmental Services Committee Meeting would be appreciated.

P J HENRY PSM

GENERAL MANAGER

A G E N D A

SECTION A APOLOGIES CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES DISCLOSURE OF CONFLICT OF INTERESTS/PECUNIARY AND NON-

PECUNIARY INTERESTS PUBLIC FORUM BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES

SECTION B ADVOCACY REPORTS

SECTION C COMMITTEE REPORTS

SECTION D DESTINATION REPORTS

SECTION E INFORMATION REPORTS

SECTION F GENERAL BUSINESS

SECTION G CONFIDENTIAL MATTERS (COMMITTEE-OF-THE-WHOLE)

Quick Reference Guide Below is a legend that is common between the: Inverell Shire Council Strategic Plan;

Inverell Shire Council Delivery Plan; and

Inverell Shire Council Operational Plan.

MINUTES OF THE CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING HELD IN THE COMMITTEE ROOM, 144 OTHO STREET, INVERELL ON WEDNESDAY, 10 MAY, 2017, COMMENCING AT 8.30 AM.

PRESENT: Cr D F Baker (Chairperson), Crs P J Harmon, M J Peters, S J Berryman and J N McCosker.

Also in attendance: Crs J A Watts, C M Dight, P A King and A A

Michael. Paul Henry (General Manager), Brett McInnes (Director Civil and Environmental Services), Justin Pay (Manager Civil Engineering), Anthony Alliston (Manager Development Services), Michael Bryant (Manager Environmental Engineering) and Sharon Stafford (Executive Assistant).

SECTION A

APOLOGIES:

There were no apologies received.

1. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES RESOLVED (Harmon/Berryman) that the Minutes of the Civil and Environmental Services Committee Meeting held on 12 April, 2017, as circulated to members, be confirmed as a true and correct record of that meeting. Cr Peters and Cr McCosker requested that their vote against the motion be recorded.

2. DISCLOSURE OF CONFLICT OF INTERESTS/PECUNIARY AND NON-PECUNIARY INTERESTS

There were no interests declared.

3. PUBLIC FORUM S13.5.6/10 No members of the public were present.

4. BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES Nil.

SECTION B ADVOCACY REPORTS

MCE-A Cr McCosker Delungra District Development Council (DDDC)

Cr McCosker advised that he represented Cr Watts at the last meeting of the DDDC. Issues raised included: Major drainage issues in the village during the recent

heavy rain; Traffic speeding through the village, particularly

trucks; Request for improvements to truck stops between

Inverell and Delungra and the Gragin turn-off; Fox problem in the village; No guide post markers between Inverell and Delungra

advising distance to Delungra;

Minutes of Civil & Environmental Services Committee Meeting – 10 May 2017

Page 2 of 3

Request for strategic planting of 10-20 native trees; Request for “hump” which has developed on the

intersection of Gwydir and Inverell Street to be investigated.

SECTION D

DESTINATION REPORTS

MEE-A 1. DOG EXERCISE AREA S11.1.2 RESOLVED (Harmon/Peters) that the Committee recommend to Council that: i) Sinclair Park is not a location preferred by Council to establish a fenced, off-

leash dog exercise area; ii) Further investigations into an alternate site be carried out including costings.

MCE-A 2. SAPPHIRE WIND FARM - ROAD DILAPIDATION DEED S28.27.2 RESOLVED (Peters/Berryman) that the Committee recommend to Council that the Sapphire Wind Farm, Road Dilapidation Deed (Inverell) be executed under the common seal of Council.

EXA-A 3. HERITAGE ADVISOR FUNDING S18.8.3/03 RESOLVED (Harmon/McCosker) that the information be noted and Mr Adam Marshall be thanked for his approaches in support of Council’s Heritage program.

SECTION E INFORMATION REPORTS

1. WORKS UPDATE S28.21.1

RESOLVED (Berryman/Harmon) that the items contained in the Information Reports to

the Civil & Environmental Services Committee Meeting held on Wednesday, 10 May, 2017, be received and noted.

SECTION F GENERAL BUSINESS

MCE-A Cr Dight Truck Stop

Cr Dight requested that consideration be given to the widening of the T intersection truck stop on the Bruxner Way at Yetman.

General Manager

Tin Tot Bridge Replacement The General Manager requested an update in respect of progress with the bridge replacement. The Manager Environmental Engineering informed the Committee that the contractor is currently fabricating the bridge off-site. The contractor will be on-site for 3-4 weeks in early June to install the bridge. Subject to favourable weather conditions, the project should be completed by September, 2017.

MDS-A Cr Harmon Short Street Development Cr Harmon noted a development in Short Street and queried whether the use was permissible in that particular zone. The Manager Development Services advised that the development is being

Minutes of Civil & Environmental Services Committee Meeting – 10 May 2017

Page 3 of 3

investigated.

General Manager

Lake Inverell Reserve The General Manager invited the Manager Environmental Engineering to table concept plans for a project at Lake Inverell comprising a boardwalk, viewing platform and an extension of paths, to promote greater accessibility, highlight environmental aspects and facilitate eco-tourism at the Reserve. Council has expressed an interest in the Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism grant program to fund the project.

MCE-A Cr Baker Amenities Block Cr Baker advised that the amenities block in Sinclair Park is in need of maintenance and repairs.

Cr Baker Leave of Absence Cr Baker advised that she would be requiring a leave of absence for personal reasons for the July Committee meetings.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 9.25am. CR D F BAKER CHAIRPERSON

CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING

Wednesday, 14 June, 2017

Table of Contents SECTION/PAGE Community Engagement – Parking Charges at Armidale Airport B 1

Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy D 9

Findings from Office of Transport Safety Investigations - School Bus Stops D 5

Issues Raised at Recent Delungra District Development Committee E 2

List of Suggested Improvements – Bonshaw 2017 D 7

NSW Travelling Stock Reserves Review D 1

Request to Consider Provision of Loading Zones in Inverell CBD D 4

Works Update E 1

B 1 ADVOCACY REPORT B 1

TO CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING 14/6/2017

ITEM NO: 1. FILE NO: S30.16.4

DESTINATION 1: A recognised leader in a broader context R SUBJECT: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT - PARKING CHARGES AT ARMIDALE

AIRPORT

PREPARED BY: Cr Mal Peters

SUMMARY: Armidale Regional Council is seeking comment from the public on charging for overnight parking at the Armidale Airport. The Committee is being asked to discuss this issue. COMMENTARY: Councillor’s attention is drawn to a recent announcement by the Administrator of Armidale Regional Council that he intends to seek comment from the public on charging for overnight parking at the Armidale Airport. A copy of the article which appeared in The Armidale Express on this issue is attached (Appendix 1, B3). A discussion of this issue is required. GENERAL MANAGER’S COMMENT: The issue was raised at the Armidale Regional Council meeting held on 24 May, 2017. A copy of the Armidale Regional Council report which prompted the newspaper article is attached (B4). The Manager of Armidale Airport, Mr Tim Weeks, indicated that 80 per cent of cars using the parking lot are overnight stayers (approximately 127 cars per night). It is a complex issue with ‘car pooling’ meeting point being a major issue (Costa’s, UNE, teachers, etc). RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN, DELIVERY PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN: Strategy: R.08 Council leads the community by influencing and participating in policy development to the benefit of the Shire through partnerships and alliances with government, regional interests, shire groups and communities. Term Achievement: R.08.01 A targeted program of advocacy and policy discussion is being conducted with the active cooperation of others benefiting interests around social, environmental, economic and infrastructure priorities. POLICY IMPLICATIONS: Nil. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S COMMENT: Nil. LEGAL IMPLICATIONS: Nil.

B 2 ADVOCACY REPORT B 2 TO CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING 14/6/2017

RECOMMENDATION:

A matter for the committee.


APPENDIX 1

The Armidale Express

Council seeks views on overnight paid parking at Armidale Regional Airport 1 Jun 2017, 1:53 p.m.

Community engagement within the New England Region to gather views and opinions on the possibility of Armidale Regional Council implementing paid overnight parking at the Armidale Regional Airport has been approved by the Administrator Dr Ian Tiley.

Paid parking at the Armidale Regional Airport has been a topic of conversation for some time. Most other airports that offer a daily commercial passenger service to multiple destinations have already implemented a paid parking program.

The Administrator Dr Ian Tiley said the time was right to explore a more equitable and fairer system to provide a means of ongoing funding and maintaining infrastructure at the Armidale Regional Airport.

“Council is undertaking major infrastructure at the Armidale Regional Airport including a terminal and apron extension which will require council to borrow and service loans,” said Dr Tiley.

“The majority of people who park at the airport either stay overnight or between three and five days. The current parking arrangements at the airport are not keeping up with demand. Passengers are spilling out into grass areas and on verges.”

The current parking arrangements at the airport are not keeping up with demand. - Ian Tiley

“The cost to provide airport infrastructure including additional parking should not be a burden borne primarily by the ratepayers of Armidale Regional Council but one which is more effectively shared across the greater New England region which benefits from the high quality airline services provided by the Armidale Regional Airport. Paid overnight parking offers a fairer way to introduce a ‘user pays’ system for parking.”

Short-term and day parking at the airport would still be free if the proposal proceeds. Vehicles parked overnight may incur a fee of around $10 per day. Council is exploring possible discounts for extended parking periods.

Consultation has commenced and will conclude on Friday, June 23. Feedback from the community about the proposal can be left at council’s online engagement hub at yoursay.armidale.nsw.gov.au or submissions can be emailed to [email protected] Submissions can also be mailed to Armidale Regional Council PO Box 75A Armidale, NSW 2350 or dropped off at our offices in Armidale and Guyra. A display will also be placed at the airport for passengers to provide feedback.

D 1 DESTINATION REPORTS D 1


ITEM NO: 1. FILE NO: S16.7.19/05

DESTINATION 5: The communities are supported by sustainable services and infrastructure. S

SUBJECT: NSW TRAVELLING STOCK RESERVES REVIEW

PREPARED BY: David Strugnell, Asset Management Coordinator

SUMMARY: The New South Wales Government is undertaking a state-wide review of Travelling Stock Reserves (TSRs). A public consultation paper has been released asking for feedback on the use of TSRs for both stock and for other purposes. The Committee is asked to consider a response to the paper. COMMENTARY: Travelling Stock Reserves (TSRs) are parcels of Crown Land reserved under the Crown Lands Act 1989 for use by travelling stock. There are more than 6,500 TSRs on Crown Land throughout NSW, covering an area of approximately two million hectares. In 2012 and 2013, the NSW Government conducted the Crown Lands Management Review which recognised that many TSRs are no longer used for their original purpose and recommended a state-wide review to build an evidence base on which TSRs are used. One of the first actions undertaken has been the issuing of a public consultation paper, which seeks input from stakeholders on the TSRs in their area and for what purposes or values they are important. A copy of this paper is included in Appendix 1 (D6-D22) The review has categorised TSRs into four broad groups:

• Category 1 – TSRs that are only used for travelling stock or emergency management and biosecurity purposes. These sites have no other important uses or values. These TSRs would need to remain and be managed for travelling stock purposes;

• Category 2 – TSRs that are used for travelling stock, emergency management or biosecurity purposes, but are also important and used for a range of other reasons - for example, biodiversity conservation, Aboriginal cultural heritage or recreational purposes. These TSRs will need to remain as TSRs and be managed for their multiple purposes;

• Category 3 – TSRs that are not used for travelling stock or emergency management, but are important, valued and used for other reasons - for example, biodiversity conservation, Aboriginal cultural heritage or recreational purposes. These TSRs may need to be re-reserved or re-purposed to ensure they are effectively protected and managed for the purposes they are used and valued for; and

• Category 4 – TSRs that are no longer used or valued for any of the above reasons.

Council controls a number of transport, water and gravel quarry assets that are situated on Travelling Stock Routes. There are also some areas within TSRs where Council may have encouraged recreational uses such as fishing and fossicking. A desktop review has identified the following council interests on TSRs in the Shire.

D 2 DESTINATION REPORTS D 2 TO CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING 14/6/2017

Description Use TSRs

Graman Road Road R338, R26305, R14075, R14707, R54074, R53889

Orchard Place Road R668, R68617

The Gully Road Road R1296

Cicada Place Road R1296

Emmaville Road Road R55389, R23783, R16953, R23782, R16952

Goonoowigall Road Road R1296

Wetzlers Drive Road R1296

Coalmine Road Road R369, R28605, R41276

Ashford Cemetery Road Road R25842

Pindaroi Road Road R6313, R6315, R70380, R6314

Gwydir Highway Road R24243

Wandera Gravel Pit Quarry R43646

Airlie Brake Gravel Pit Quarry R337

Weean Gravel Pit Quarry R26868

Hatchers Gravel Pit Quarry R6315

Ashford Tip Gravel Pit Quarry R338

Ashford One Gravel Pit Quarry R26305

Valhalla Gravel Pit Quarry R19279

Pit 2050 Gravel Pit Quarry R45967

Bebo Gravel Pit Quarry R55809

Texas Gravel Pit Quarry R3238

Bonshaw Tip Gravel Pit Quarry R5614

Kia-Ora MR137 Gravel Pit Quarry R63952


Rocky Dam One Gravel Pit Quarry R32452

Rocky Dam Two Gravel Pit Quarry R32452

Coolatai Roadside Gravel Pit Quarry R369A

Wallangra Gravel Pit Quarry R19280

Beveridge Gravel Pit Quarry R19279

Honeysuckle Creek Gravel Pit Quarry R19279

Kia-Ora MR187 Gravel Pit Quarry R39917

Myall Creek Gravel Pit Quarry R23783

Pindari View Gravel Pit Quarry R23782

O’Briens Gravel Pit Quarry R23783

Emmaville Roadside Gravel Pit Quarry R55389

Sawpit Gully Gravel Pit Quarry R53889

Arthurs Seat Gravel Pit Quarry R82832

Hurricane Hill Gravel Pit Quarry R6313

Arrawatta Creek Gravel Pit Quarry R6316

Pearsby Gravel Pit Quarry R741

Woodridge Gravel Pit Quarry R997


Description Use TSRs

Fourways Roadside Gravel Pit Quarry R23408

Kings Plains Road Gravel Pit Quarry R337

Blue Pinch Gravel Pit Quarry R11091

White Pinch Gravel Pit Quarry R11091


Old Armidale Road Gravel Pit Quarry R2536

Bundarra Roadside Gravel Pit Quarry R1296

Woodlands Gravel Pit Quarry R1296

Cunninghams Hill Gravel Pit Quarry R71125

Omar Gravel Pit Quarry R52200

Wandera Fossicking Area Recreation R43646

Cunninghams Hill Water Distribution Facility Water Supply R1296

Staggs Lane Water Distribution Facility Water Supply R1296

Fisher Road Water Distribution Facility Water Supply R668

Whether the abovementioned TSRs are used for travelling stock is not something that Council can comment on with any authority; however it is sensible to ensure that the uses identified are considered during the review. At present, the review is seeking specifics on which reserves are used for traveling stock and which have other uses, rather than stakeholder’s views on the value or importance of the network as a whole. The paper suggests that further consultation will take place with stakeholders at a later date; however Council may wish to consider a further response to the review paper if it considers there to be other important uses or values provided by the TSRs in Inverell Shire. RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN, DELIVERY PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN: Strategy: S.08 Provision of safe and efficient networks to ensure connectivity between population centres. Term Achievement: S.12.02 A sustainable and strategic approach to the management of Council’s Assets is undertaken. POLICY IMPLICATIONS: Nil. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S COMMENT: Nil. LEGAL IMPLICATIONS: Nil. RECOMMENDATION:

That the Civil and Environmental Services Committee recommend to Council that a submission be made to the Review, identifying those reserves recognised in the desktop review that are used by Council for purposes other than travelling stock.



DESTINATION 5: The communities are served by sustainable services and infrastructure S

SUBJECT: REQUEST TO CONSIDER PROVISION OF LOADING ZONES IN INVERELL CBD

PREPARED BY: Brett McInnes, Director Civil & Environmental Services

SUMMARY: This report has been initiated by a request from representatives of several freight companies for Council to consider the provision of dedicated loading zones in the CBD. The Committee is being asked to determine a course of action in response to the request. COMMENTARY: Councillor King previously briefed Council in relation to a representation he had received on behalf of several local freight operators, regarding the provision of dedicated loading zones in the Inverell CBD. A copy of the associated correspondence has been included in Appendix 2 (D23-D25) for the information of committee members. Access for service vehicles to the CBD is not a new issue for Council, with reference to the matter appearing in traffic studies undertaken in the mid 80’s, early 90’s, 2008 and 2009. In general, the traffic studies emphasised the extensive laneway network servicing the CBD and suggested this should be relied upon for delivery arrangements. However, the 2009 traffic study which focused exclusively on the Inverell CBD, acknowledged the limitations associated with laneway deliveries and recommended consideration is given to the provision of dedicated loading zones. The relevant extract from the 2009 CBD Traffic Study has been included in Appendix 3 (D26-D27). The matter was also discussed during the development of the Town Centre Renewal Plan in 2013, when consideration was given to what role an at-grade centre median would play in catering for service vehicles. The 2009 Inverell CBD Parking and Traffic Study was tabled at Council’s Services Committee meeting on the 24 February 2009, where it was received and noted. There has been no subsequent action to implement dedicated loading zones in the Inverell CBD. A review of Council’s records would indicate that since 2009, Council has received one formal representation regarding the provision of a loading zone in the CBD (Vivian Street). The correspondence from the freight operators highlighted the logistical issues associated with delivering from rear laneways and double parking in the main street. Concern was also raised in relation to increasing traffic volumes in the CBD and how this limits their operations. Traffic counters were placed out over a three week period during May 2017 in the CBD. The results of these counts and a comparison to historical counts are provided in the table below:

DATE LOCATION AVG.VPD

Jan 2008

Dec 2014

May 2017

Otho Street (Byron to Evans)



5120

4576

4388

Aug 2003 Byron Street (Lawrence to Vivian) 8000


Dec 2014

May 2017

Byron Street (Lawrence to Vivian)

Byron Street (Lawrence to Vivian)

8000

7343

Dec 2008

May 2017

Byron Street (Vivian to Otho)

Byron Street (Vivian to Otho)

5700

7850

Caution should be applied when drawing conclusions from traffic counts alone, as they do not provide information as to what percentage of vehicles are actually stopping in the CBD. Should Council wish to implement a traffic regulatory mechanism such as a loading zone, it is necessary to first refer the matter to the Local Traffic Committee. Council’s engineering staff would also need to investigate any proposal prior to referring the matter to the Local Traffic Committee. As has been the case in the past, the issue revolves around finding a balance between the need to provide for freight deliveries to the commercial sector and the demand for on street parking in the CBD. RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN, DELIVERY PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN: Strategy: S.10 Maintain and enhance a safe, efficient and effective local road network. Term Achievement: S.10.01 Road network capacity, safety and efficiency are improved and traffic congestion is reduced. Operational Objective: S.10.01.01 A program is being implemented to address deficiencies and areas of congestion in the local road network. POLICY IMPLICATIONS: Nil. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S COMMENT: Nil. LEGAL IMPLICATIONS: Nil. RECOMMENDATION:

That the committee determine what action it wishes to take in response to the request to consider the provision of dedicated loading zones in the Inverell CBD.



SUBJECT: FINDINGS FROM OFFICE OF TRANSPORT SAFETY INVESTIGATIONS - SCHOOL BUS STOPS


PREPARED BY: Manager Civil Engineering, Justin Pay

SUMMARY: Council is in receipt of correspondence from Roads and Maritime Services, outlining the findings from the Office of Transport Safety Investigations, regarding a fatal crash involving a child pedestrian in the south of New South Wales in August last year. The correspondence outlines recommendations specific to road authorities. The committee is requested to receive and note this information and endorse the recommended approach to complying with the recommendations. COMMENTARY: A copy of the correspondence from Roads and Maritime Services relating to the findings from the Office of Transport Safety Investigations (OTSI) is provided for the information of the Committee in Appendix 4 (D32-D35). As a road authority, Council has a responsibility to manage its road network in a fashion that provides for the safety of all users, particularly vulnerable users such as school bus passengers. The findings and recommendations of OTSI are aimed at guiding road authorities to make informed decisions regarding road safety. Of particular note are the recommendations specific to Roads authorities, which are:

Road authorities shall make their local experienced bodies of knowledge, such as engineers and traffic committees, available to advise parents, bus operators and the community to select suitable non-designated bus pick-up and drop-off points and the associated crossing locations to be used by children;

Where possible, roads authorities shall explore opportunities for children to embark and disembark on the same roadside, and close to their residence. This can be achieved by children staying on a bus for the entire loop route and remove the need to cross a road. Where this is not practical, the roads authority should assist in the selection of suitable crossing locations; and

Roads authorities shall adopt the Centre for Road Safety guidance. Council currently utilises its Local Traffic Committee (LTC) for its primary mandated function, which is to provide advice on delegated traffic management functions. To a lesser extent, the Inverell LTC is relied upon to provide optional advice in relation to road safety matters. To facilitate efficient provision of advice, Council Engineers have liaised directly with Bus Operators and parents regarding informal bus stops. If required, advice can also be directly sought from RMS and local Police representatives regarding such matters. It is considered that this approach is consistent with the recommendations provided for road authorities and it is proposed to continue in this manner accordingly. Council currently utilise the Centre for Road Safety guides and publications when providing road safety advice and will continue to do so regarding informal bus stops. It is important to note that Council does not currently have any specific budget vote for construction, ongoing maintenance or upgrading of informal bus stops. Funding is available under State Government funding programs for formal bus stops and Council does apply for this funding on an annual basis. RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN, DELIVERY PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN: Strategy: S.08 Civil infrastructure is secured, maintained and used to optimum benefit. Term Achievement: S.08.01 An asset management strategy is in operation for civil infrastructure that optimises its use and maintains it to agreed standards fit for its contemporary purpose. Operational Objective: S.08.01.01 An Asset Management Strategy for Civil assets is developed, maintained and implemented.


POLICY IMPLICATIONS: Nil. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S COMMENT: Nil. LEGAL IMPLICATIONS: Nil. RECOMMENDATION:

That the Committee recommend to Council that; i. The information be received and noted; ii. The recommended approach for providing advice regarding informal bus stops

be endorsed; and iii. Correspondence is forwarded to local school bus operators, informing them that

Council has technical and engineering resources available to provide advice regarding informal bus stops.



SUBJECT: LIST OF SUGGESTED IMPROVEMENTS BONSHAW - 2017


SUMMARY: Council is in receipt of a “wish list” of matters to be considered for the village of Bonshaw. Council staff have reviewed the list to determine what matters can be actioned under current maintenance votes. COMMENTARY: During Questions Without Notice at the May meeting of the Economic and Community Sustainability Committee meeting, Councillor Dight tabled a “wish list” of matters to be considered for the village of Bonshaw. The list is included in Appendix 5 (D36) for the information of the Committee. Council’s Manager Civil Engineering and Supervisor Northern Area undertook an inspection of Bonshaw during the first week of June to assess the issues raised in the list and discuss the matters with some local residents. The below commentary is summarised under the headings from the list and is intended to advise the committee regarding what items are actionable within Council’s existing maintenance votes. Village Maintenance Issues Most of the items listed under the heading Village Maintenance Issues will be actioned as part of Council’s ongoing maintenance program, these works will be completed in the following months. Items six and seven, regarding blocking of a lane and compensation for mowing of a park will


require further investigation and discussion between Council and the community. Council has previously made representations and grant funding applications to improve mobile phone coverage in the area and Council will continue to advocate for the improvement of services in the area. Hall Maintenance Issues The requested repairs of side stairs and windows will be actioned by Council’s Northern maintenance crew in coming months. There are no funds currently allocated to cater for the requests for air conditioning and an internal toilet in Council’s budget. These are potential future delivery plan items. Village amenities – the park and public toilets Signage of the existing public toilets will be improved with some vegetation removed in order to improve access to existing facility. It should be noted that at the time of inspection the toilets were in a well maintained condition. Council’s northern staff will continue to monitor the condition of the facility to determine if more frequent maintenance is required. The other items raised under this heading are unfunded at this time. If these items were to be considered then a cost benefit analysis should be undertaken and the matters considered against other priorities across the Shire. Making Bonshaw look loved The request for an appropriate species of trees as an avenue will be further discussed with local residents with a view to supply and plant trees at the next available opportunity. Bonshaw Tip These items will be addressed when the facility is converted to a transfer station. All other items listed are currently unfunded and require further consideration as potential future delivery plan items. RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN, DELIVERY PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN: Strategy: S.05 Attractive and vibrant town centres, local centres and community meeting places are provided. Term Achievement: S.05.01 Local centres, community facilities and prominent meeting places are increasingly valued and recognised by the community as a focus of their village and feature of the Shire. Operational Objective: S.05.01.01 Engage the Shire's communities in identifying and creating community places that are valued and used. POLICY IMPLICATIONS: Nil. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S COMMENT: LEGAL IMPLICATIONS: Nil.


RECOMMENDATION:

That the Committee recommend to Council that the noted items be actioned within existing maintenance votes and further consideration be given to the subsequent items as potential future Delivery Plan items.



SUBJECT: DRAFT INVERELL PUBLIC OPEN SPACE STRATEGY

PREPARED BY: Anthony Alliston, Manager Development Services

SUMMARY: This report is intended to provide the Civil and Environmental Services Committee with background and an update on the status of the Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy following the information report presented to the Ordinary Meeting of Council in May, 2017. The Committee is being asked to recommend to Council to endorse the Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy to be placed on public exhibition. BACKGROUND: For many years Council has been contending with requests from various community organisations, user-groups and individuals in respect of the use, management and upgrade of Inverell’s public open spaces. In recognition of Council’s role to ensure the Inverell Shire’s open space network is effectively and sustainably managed for current and future residents, Council resolved to prepare an “Open Space Strategy” for Inverell. On 24 September, 2014, Council resolved to seek expressions of interest for the preparation of an Inverell Public Open Space Strategy and on 25 March 2015 Council resolved to engage ROSS Planning Pty Ltd to prepare the strategy. The intent of the Inverell Public Open Space Strategy is to provide Council with an overarching frame-work to direct public open space planning and management in a co-ordinated, sustainable and more effective manner. It would also assist the community in understanding the current intentions, and in some cases, what the future intentions are for the parks and reserves in the study area. As part of the Inverell Public Open Space Strategy, Council’s Manager Development Services in conjunction with ROSS Planning prepared a Communications Strategy (which was endorsed by Council on 22 July, 2015) consisting of six (6) stages including:

1. Communication Initiation - including initial discussions with Councillors; 2. Targeted Consultation - including internal and external stakeholders; 3. Issues Paper - a succinct summary of the public open space audit and targeted

consultation; 4. Draft Open Space Strategy - draft prepared and reviewed by Council Staff – (Current

stage); 5. Exhibition of Draft Open Space Strategy (Next step); and 6. Finalisation of Draft Open Space Strategy.


A copy of the Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy has been provided to the Committee members under a separate cover. PROJECT UPDATE: Since engaging ROSS Planning in March, 2015 and in accordance with the Inverell Public Open Space Strategy Brief, the following tasks have been completed:

1. Project Start-up Meeting with key Council Staff and Councillors; 2. Preparation and adoption of the Communications Strategy; 3. Newspaper advertising, Web-site and Facebook notifications; 4. Audit of public open space in Inverell; 5. Targeted engagement with the community including Sports Council and key user groups; 6. Community on-line surveys; 7. Preparation of an “Issues Paper”; and 8. Preparation of the “Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy”.

Since the completion of the first version of the Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy in February 2016 there has been some delay in finalising the Draft document. This has been primarily due to the focus on the upgrade works at the Inverell Sporting Complex, which is Council’s most significant sporting venue. Grant funding for this $1.18M project was received under the Club Grants Category 3 and substantial resources have been required to ensure this project is completed by the deadline, which is the end of December, 2017. ROSS Planning have also assisted Council with this project by developing the design of an athletics precinct. SUMMARY OF THE DRAFT INVERELL PUBLIC OPEN SPACE STRATEGY DOCUMENT: The Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy is broken up into six sections which are summarised below:

1. Introduction – This section outlines the purpose of the strategy, how it was developed, defines and describes the different types of public open space and highlights the benefits of public open space including the benefits to personal health, the environment, the community and the economy.

2. Influences on public open space – This section includes the policies, plans and strategies under which public open space is managed, the community profile and participation, and industry trends that all influence how public open space is used, planned and managed.

3. Public open space in Inverell – This section provides a classification framework to each public open space area identified through the public open space audit. This framework is designed to allocate a grading to Inverell’s public open space in relation to current improvements, use and future requirements. This is reflected in the vision for public open space and the local guiding principles.

4. Public open space assessment – This is the largest of the six sections and includes an assessment of Inverell’s Public Open Space including dividing the township into precincts and providing a comprehensive summary of each precinct, area of public open space, and the connections between each.

5. Strategic options – The connectivity, activation of open space and the commercial use of

open space are discussed under this section.

6. Recommendations – This final section includes overarching recommendations for the planning and management of Inverell’s Public Open Space as well as park specific recommendations.


The Strategy also includes appendices to support the information provided in the body of the strategy. It is also intended that Council’s Manager Development Services will deliver a brief presentation to the Committee to facilitate discussion on the key aspects of the Draft Strategy. CONCLUSION: The Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy has now been completed in accordance with the endorsed Inverell Public Open Space Strategy Brief. In accordance with Stage five (5) of the Inverell Public Open Space “Communications Strategy” the Committee is being asked to recommend to Council that the Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy be placed on public exhibition. RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN, DELIVERY PLAN AND OPERATIONAL PLAN: Strategy: S.05 Attractive and vibrant town centres, local centres and community meeting places are provided. Term Achievement: S.05.01 Local centres, community facilities and prominent meeting places are increasingly valued and recognised by the community as a focus of their village and feature of the Shire. Operational Objective: S.05.01.01 Engage the Shire’s communities in identifying and creating community places that are valued and used. POLICY IMPLICATIONS: Nil. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICERS COMMENT: Nil. LEGAL IMPLICATIONS: Nil. RECOMMENDATION:

That the Committee recommend to Council that the Draft Inverell Public Open Space Strategy be placed on public exhibition.


APPENDIX 1


APPENDIX 2


APPENDIX 3


APPENDIX 4


APPENDIX 5

E 1 INFORMATION REPORTS E 1



DESTINATION 5: The communities are served by sustainable services and infrastructure. S

SUBJECT: WORKS UPDATE

PREPARED BY: Justin Pay, Manager Civil Engineering

SUMMARY: This report is intended to keep Council updated on the capital works and maintenance programs. COMMENTARY: MR 137 Ashford Road Pavement Widening and Rehabilitation – Near the property “St Hilary” This project recommenced early May, 2017 with the drainage and earthworks now complete. Works are progressing on the sub base layer with the haulage of the base material expected to commence early June, 2017. Project completion is expected at the end of June, 2017. MR 137 Ashford Road Pavement Widening and Rehabilitation – Roadside Memorial Stage 2 The project is now complete. A bitumen seal was placed early May, 2017, with the line marking completed last week. This project was the final stage in the widening and rehabilitation of a several kilometre section of Ashford Road commencing north of Nullamanna Road, past Byron Station Lane to the property “Rob Lea”, south of Wandera. MR 187 Yetman Road Pavement Widening and Rehabilitation – Near the property “Ulupna” Works commenced mid May 2017 on a 1.9 kilometre section of the Yetman Road adjacent the property “Ulupna”, 48 kilometres north of Inverell. The project involves the widening and rehabilitation of the existing pavement, substantially improving the ride quality of this section of road. Project duration is six weeks with an expected completion date at the end of June, 2017. This project is the first of extensive works programmed on the section of Yetman Road between Graman and Wallangra. At the completion of this project the works crew will move and start works near ”Cucumber Creek” and work towards Wallangra. SR 199 Auburn Vale Road Pavement Widening and Rehabilitation – McBrides Lane to Masons Lane – Stage 1 Works commenced at the end of May, 2017 on the first of a two stage construction of Auburn Vale Road, stage one being from McBrides Lane to Masons Lane. The project involves the widening and rehabilitation of a section of Auburn Vale Road, including the redesign of the Coopers Lane Intersection. Project duration for stage one is ten weeks with an expected completion date at the end of July, 2017. Stage two from Masons Lane to Minnamurra Lane is expected to commence after the completion of stage one. Gilchrist Street Kerb and Gutter Renewal – Jack Street to Bannockburn Road The project is now complete. A bitumen seal was placed late May, 2017.

E 2 INFORMATION REPORTS E 2 TO CIVIL & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING 14/6/2017

Tin Tot - Neil McCosker Bridge Replacement Construction plans are now finalised for the bridge and approaches. Works are well underway to cast the pre-cast concrete bridge components. The bridge construction contractors are currently onsite, with an estimated construction time frame of 6 weeks. Construction of the bridge approaches by Council staff will follow completion of the bridge, with project completion programmed for August 2017. Maintenance Grading Maintenance grading works were undertaken on the following roads during May 2017: SR 16 Keetah Road 4.0km SR 91 Gunyan Road 3.0km SR 215 Schwenkes Lane 1.9km SR 238 Woodstock Road 14.5km

Total 23.4km Reactive /Spot Grading No reactive /spot grading works were undertaken during May 2017. Heavy Patching No heavy patching works were undertaken during May 2017. 2016/2017 Gravel Resheeting Program The 2016/2017 Gravel Resheeting program continues in the northern section of the Shire. Segments of the following roads were completed in May 2017: SR 41 Karoola Road SR 43 Puckawidgi Road Other Maintenance Activities Councils State, Regional and Local Roads, Urban and Village Street maintenance activities, such as bitumen patching, drainage and shoulder repairs as well as vegetation control, are continuing as required. Town maintenance will continue as programmed.



SUBJECT: ISSUES RAISED AT RECENT DELUNGRA DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE


SUMMARY: At the May, 2017 meeting of the Civil and Environmental Services Committee, Councillor McCosker provided an advocacy report outlining issues raised by the Delungra District Development Committee following their meeting which he had attended. This report is intended to update the Committee on how these matters are being addressed.


COMMENTARY: The issues raised by Cr McCosker on behalf of Delungra District Development Committee were:

1. Major drainage concerns in the village during the recent heavy rain; 2. Traffic Speeding through the village, particularly trucks; 3. Request for improvements to truck stops between Inverell and Delungra and the Gragin

turn-off; 4. Fox problem in the village; 5. No guide post markers between Inverell and Delungra; 6. Request for strategic planting of 10-20 native trees; and 7. Intersection Gwydir Street and Inverell Street.

Each of the issues have been investigated and the proposed course of action regarding each is listed below: 1. Major drainage concerns in the village during the recent heavy rain

The Manager of Civil Engineering has discussed this issue with the present and previous presidents of DDDC on several occasions. Some minor works have been undertaken in the previous 12 months to alleviate some of the issues. It should be noted that the recent weather pattern included several significant rainfall events that Councils drainage system is not designed to cater for. The cause of a majority of this issue relates to property accesses (driveways) that do not have adequate drainage, that is, they have concrete slab or other gravel based slab crossings in the place of pipe culverts. Council’s current position is that each property owner is responsible for their access crossing and the cost to upgrade to pipe culverts would be born by each resident/owner. In the past Delungra residents have been unwilling to meet these costs. The plan to mitigate the issue is to undertake routine maintenance of the drainage system in the village. This will ensure that the system functions to the full capacity of its design. However, as with all of Council drainage infrastructure, significant rainfall events may be greater than the capacity of the system. 2. Traffic Speeding through the village, particularly trucks Council installed traffic classifiers in two locations on the Gwydir highway between 18/5/2017 and 1/6/2017. The locations were near the 50km/h sign east of Gwydir Street and near the bowling club. The mean average traffic speeds were 49.4km/h and 53.2km/h respectively. These results clearly show that speeding is not an issue through the village and no further action is planned at this stage. 3. Request for improvements to truck stops between Inverell and Delungra and the Gragin

turn-off Through previous discussion with heavy haulage operators, the need for upgrades to truck stop infrastructure has been raised. Council has previously sought funding under various programs to address some of these issues. Council has received informal notice that the next round of the State Government Fixing County Roads Program and the Federal Governments Heavy Vehicle Safety Program will be open for applications later this year. An application will be lodged under these programs for a project to improve this and other truck stop facilities in the Shire. 4. Fox problem in the village Fox pest control is a responsibility of Local Land Services and Council has forwarded details of this matter accordingly.


5. No guide post markers between Inverell and Delungra This matter has been investigated and all advisory signage for west bound traffic on the Gwydir highway between Inverell and Delungra refers to Warialda. This is due to Roads and Maritime Services guidelines, which stipulate the required size of a town centre associated with this type of signage. Unfortunately, due to Delungra’s population, no action is possible. 6. Request for strategic planting of 10-20 native trees Council staff will liaise with the President of DDDC to determine appropriate species and planting locations, with the trees to be supplied at the next favourable planting opportunity. 7. Intersection Gwydir Street and Inverell Street An investigation of this matter revealed there is a clear road pavement defect at this location. Council maintenance staff have attempted several low-cost solutions over recent years, with varying levels of success. Heavy patching works are programmed for the 2017/2018 financial year in order to rectify the current issues. RECOMMENDATION:

That the items contained in the Information Reports to the Civil & Environmental Services Committee Meeting held on Wednesday, 14 June, 2017, be received and noted.

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